TOBY-L100 to be demonstrated in wireless set top box during CTIA 2013

Swiss u-blox, a leading provider of wireless and positioning integrated circuits and modules, introduces the TOBY-L1 series, a new line of ultra-compact LTE modules. TOBY-L100 and European variant TOBY-L110 are ideally suited for tablets, mobile routers and set top boxes, as well as high-speed M2M applications such as digital signage, mobile health, and security systems.

Thomas Seiler, u-blox CEO, says:

“The TOBY-L1 family again confirms u-blox as the leader in wireless technology for mobile applications. TOBY-L1 combines the benefits of LTE with ultra-small size to solve the most pressing issues our customers are facing: cost and size.”

“Now, our customers can take advantage of LTE speed without breaking the bank.”
LTE-only offers cost advantages compared to multi-mode modules, making TOBY-L1 optimal for applications in networks with advanced LTE deployment.

Nikolaos Papadopoulos, President of u-blox America, says:
“TOBY-L100 is particularly suited for the exploding tablet market in the US, where TOBY-L100 offers users and carriers flexibility as a ‘Super-Wifi’ option. With low-cost TOBY-L100, we expect connected tablets to significantly increase volumes compared to Wifi-only tablets, increasing wireless carriers’ penetration in this market.”

Two versions are currently available: TOBY-L100 for the USA (bands 4, 13 on Verizon), and TOBY-L110 for Europe (bands 3, 7, 20 for EU operators). Housed in a compact 152-pin LGA module, the TOBY-L1 series is layout compatible with u-blox’ SARA GSM and LISA UMTS/CDMA module series to facilitate easy product migration as well as low-cost regional adaptation of end devices.

TOBY-L1 continues in u-blox’ philosophy of nested designs supporting smooth migration between 2G-3G-4G technologies, extremely small packaging; comprehensive support tools, and unrivalled u-blox quality. The product is based on blox’ own LTE protocol stack which has been successfully proven by several early product deployments in many networks.

TOBY-L1 series delivers ultra-fast data rates (LTE Cat. 3; 100 Mb/s download, 50 MB/s upload) and operates from –40 to +85°C. USB drivers for Windows XP and 7 plus RIL software for Android 4.0 and 4.2 are available free of charge.

TOBY-L1 LGA modules measure only 24.8 x 35.6 x 2.8 mm, allowing for easy mounting on any application board. The module supports USB 2.0 and firmware update over the air (FOTA).

TOBY-L100 will be demonstrated in a wireless set top box during CTIA 2013 in Las Vegas at u-blox’ booth number 4938.

Enables wide variety of asset tracking and monitoring solutions that improve operational efficiency throughout the supply chain.

ORBCOMM Inc. (Nasdaq: ORBC), a global provider of Machine-to-Machine (M2M) solutions, today announced the availability of four innovative asset tracking and monitoring devices targeted for the transportation and logistics market. This comprehensive product portfolio includes the GT 1000, GT 1200, GT 2000, and RT 6000+, all of which complement the recently announced GT 1100, ORBCOMM’s first self-powered M2M device for intermodal container and trailer tracking and monitoring.

The ORBCOMM GT 2000 is a powerful dual-mode cargo security and monitoring device that enables location tracking and intrusion detection of cargo containers and other assets through satellite and cellular networks along with GPS capability. This device has a thin, low-profile enclosure that facilitates mounting in between the door and the container or trailer locking bars. In addition, the sensor suite detects door intrusion, motion and temperature.

The RT 6000+ is tailored for the refrigerated transport market. This fourth generation device has been field tested and proven with over 75,000 units fielded. The solution is a dual-mode, two-way reefer monitoring and control device that provides visibility, control and decision rules to transportation companies worldwide. This industry-leading solution provides comprehensive temperature, fuel management, maintenance, and logistical applications services to revolutionize refrigerated transportation operations. By leveraging the power of the RT 6000+, customers can achieve maximum compliance, efficiency and return on investment.

The GT 1000 is a low-cost, cellular-enabled electronic bolt seal with GPS capability, co-developed with Tyden Brooks, the world’s largest seal company. The self-powered GT 1000 installs in minutes and is designed for theft prevention and recovery as well as virtual warehouse and in-transit visibility applications. The bolt and locking cap provide a secure truck or container lock and reliably detect cut or removal in real-time.

A self-powered device with cellular communications and GPS capability, the GT 1200 is a sophisticated tracking and monitoring solution that provides valuable insight into the status, movement, loading, and unloading of dry intermodal containers. By leveraging dynamic telematics capabilities integrated with intermodal order and event information systems, domestic container operators can utilize the GT 1200 to vastly improve the performance of their operations.

These ORBCOMM devices can be paired with powerful web analytics platforms, which provide near-real-time knowledge and notifications of the assets’ status and location, empowering fleet owners and leasors with complete command and control of their global assets.

“ORBCOMM’s robust new suite of leading M2M devices brings an unmatched level of versatility, functionality and service to the transportation industry,” said Marc Eisenberg, ORBCOMM’s Chief Executive Officer.

“Our devices are tailored to meet the needs of key market segments throughout the supply chain – from reefer monitoring and container security to trailer tracking and cargo asset management. We will continue to develop innovative M2M solutions focused on helping our customers maximize asset utilization and improve their bottom line.”

First in Series of M2M CDMA Portfolio Enabling M2M applications over Sprint Nationwide Mobile Network.

Novatel Wireless, Inc. (Nasdaq:NVTL), a leading provider of intelligent wireless solutions, today announced that its Enabler® HS 3001 CDMA smart module for machine-to-machine applications has been certified for use on the Sprint network. The Enabler HS 3001 is a dual band (800/1900 MHz) CDMA2000 1X module that is supported by the rich on-board N4A Communication and Management Software agent to provide speedy market introduction of M2M deployments on the nationwide Sprint CDMA network.

The Enabler HS 3001 is part of Novatel Wireless’ family of smart M2M embedded modules that are compatible in form factor, functionality and AT command interfaces. As a result, customers who use multiple networks can seamlessly exchange modules without redesign of underlying M2M devices.

The Enabler HS 3001 is also expected to roll out in Novatel Wireless’ mobile tracking, asset tracking and telemetry portfolio of integrated platforms in the future, and will be part of the joint offering to Sprint’s M2M customers under the Sprint Open-Network-Execution (ONE) approach.

“We are excited to collaborate with Sprint and its M2M customers to further expand the development of innovative M2M applications,” said Dr. Slim Souissi, CTO, Novatel Wireless.

“Our proven form factor supports rapid product development, and robustness in the field and we are thrilled to be collaborating with Sprint to help application developers, OEMs, M2M service providers and enterprises get new solutions up and running on the Nationwide Sprint Network quickly and cost-effectively.”

Building on the proven design of the Enfora module series, the Enabler HS 3001 low power platform delivers small size and industry-leading performance, reliable connectivity, and device intelligence needed for today’s demanding M2M applications. These include security, remote maintenance and control, automatic vehicle location asset tracking, point of sale, mHealth, and advanced metering infrastructure and automatic meter reading.

“We’re excited to collaborate with Novatel Wireless on both embedded modules and their advanced integrated M2M solutions,” said Wayne Ward, Vice President, M2M Group, Sprint.
“Innovative companies across many sectors can now take advantage of our joint service offerings, enabled by Sprint’s dependable network. And as a 1X module, the Enabler HS 3001 is well suited for companies that want to continue with 1xRTT. Unlike some other major carriers, Sprint expects to maintain its 2G 1xRTT capability for the long term as part of our Network Vision strategy.”

The Enabler HS 3001 has a flexible, modular architecture delivering simpler, faster development and deployment of applications, keeping enterprises connected to business-critical data virtually anywhere, anytime with the following benefits:

• A 100-pin connector form factor
• Support of essential features:
• Voice (optional)
• SMS
• Packet Data TCP/IP and UDP/IP software stack with Packet Assembler Disassembler
• Common footprint across all our modules
• Dimensions: 28 x 25 x 4.5 mm
• FOTA enabled
• Board-to-board RF electrical interface
• Supports UART and USB interfaces.
• Optional Integration with CMS solution for quick development and deployment

Jupiter SE868-V2 Delivers GPS, Glonass, QZSS Operation, Ready for Galileo and Compass BDS

Telit Wireless Solutions, a leading global provider of high-quality machine-to-machine (M2M) modules, services and solutions, today announced the introduction of the Jupiter SE868-V2 compact multi-constellation receiver module for positioning and navigation applications in the automotive, commercial, industrial, and consumer segments including wearable and handheld devices. The small11x11mm CSR SiRFstarV™ 5e-based, QFN packaged receiver module supports American Global Positioning System (GPS), Russian Globalnayanavigatsionnayasputnikovayasistema (Glonass) and Japanese Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS). The company plans to ship market samples of the product’s second version which is ready to receive satellite signals from European Galileo, and Chinese BeiDou Compass (BDS) sat-navigation systems later this year as standards for these constellations are completed. The SE868-V2 receiver module was created to shorten time-to-market, make the chipset-versus-module decision easy to make for new designs and to provide a pin-compatible path for devices based on the Jupiter JF2 GPS module to upgrade to the latest and most robust multi-constellation support available in the market.

Telit’s Jupiter SE868-V2 excels in all positioning tasks and foremost in applications requiring high reliability navigation. Because of its ability to track GPS and Glonassconstellations simultaneously it remains in navigation for a much higher percentage of time with no interruptions in the stream of position fixes. It also requires no external management for switching among the different satellite systems. The product features ultra-high sensitivity, up to -165dBm in tracking and -148dBm in acquisition. The SE868-V2 also reduces bill-of-material (BOM) costs of the customer device with an internal low-noise amplifier (LNA) which eliminates the need for costly active antennas.

The SE868-V2 also features very low power consumption as well as advanced power saving modes. It operates on a 1.8V supply at 3.2 mA current when in push-to-fix (PTF)mode and up to 45 mA typical current when engaged in simultaneous GPS and Glonass tracking. For devices upgrading from the JF2 GPS-only receiver, the new receiver is capable of delivering all its enhanced functionality while consuming power levels equivalent to the JF2. That allows JF2 customers to adopt the SE868-V2 without having to upgrade the device’s power supply which is particularly critical in battery powered products.

Helping deliver high-value features and robustness, the device’s RF front-end includes and advanced jamming detection and in-DSP removal system allowing it to reject continuous-wave (CW) jamming interference. It can interface with the host device via standard UART SPI or I2C, hot start in less than one second or cold start in less than 35 seconds. The SE868-V2 also supports the industry’s top assisted GNSS standards allowing the customer solution to reap benefits from faster fixes in obscured or partly obscured sky conditions. Jupiter SE868-V2 is a multi-constellation GNSS product enhanced for maximum sensitivity with minimal sky-visibility – indoors, garages, urban canyons, etc. Its advanced power saving modes make it extremely battery-power friendly and ideal for wearable and personal navigation applications.

“The Jupiter SE868-V2is one the industry’s first applications of CSR’s latest generation and state-of-the-art, multi-GNSS platform, theCSR SiRFstarV™ 5e.”

“Announcing this product here at CTIA 2013 reaffirms Telit’s leading R&D power in the industry when we can launch a product like the V2 before most competitors sharing similar long-standing presence in the positioning space.” said Dominikus Hierl, Chief Marketing Officer at Telit Wireless Solutions.
“Now the large customer base for the popular Jupiter JF2 GPS-only module can quickly introduce a new generation of their own products providing them the opportunity to upsell their own customer base.”

Other distinguishing features of the SE868-V2 include reliability enhancing multipath mitigation, cross-correlation mitigation and 8-10dB of 3GPP pass margins. Besides support to BeiDou Compass (BDS) and Galileo,the product roadmap also includes leading edge features like MEMS context detection and navigation aiding Wi-Fi hybrid-positioning;and Cell-ID tracking,data-logging Adaptive Continuous Track (ACT).

Leverages 14 years of M2M industry leadership, expertise and innovation.

ORBCOMM Inc., a global provider of satellite and cellular-based Machine-to-Machine (M2M) solutions, today announced the availability of the ORBCOMM GT 1100, a self-powered M2M asset tracking and monitoring device targeted for a variety of global markets including transportation and logistics, heavy equipment and oil and gas.

ORBCOMM’s ruggedized, easy-to-install device is designed to fit seamlessly in between the indented spacing on intermodal containers. Its low, one-inch height profile and small form factor are also ideal for tracking and monitoring trailers and other types of cargo assets. The GT 1100 is sensor-compatible and self-powered with solar recharging technology for low power consumption, which works well for tracking and monitoring other remote unpowered assets such as construction and mining equipment.

The ORBCOMM GT 1100 can support three modes of communication – cellular, satellite and dual-mode, which blends cellular and satellite capability. This device will be offered initially with cellular communications capability. Customer samples of this device are available now for trial, and the device will be commercially available in the third quarter of 2013. This fall, the satellite and dual-mode versions of the GT 1100 will be commercially available in conjunction with ORBCOMM’s OG2 next generation constellation launch.

“Based on the strong demand in both domestic and global markets for a flexible, cost-effective and reliable M2M solution, we see a tremendous opportunity for ORBCOMM to leverage its 14 years of industry expertise.”
Marc Eisenberg, ORBCOMM’s Chief Executive Officer, said:

“While most solutions limit asset visibility to one or two views per day, this innovative solution gives you many daily reports. We are excited to bring ORBCOMM’s high-performance GT 1100 to market.”

The GT 1100 also includes a robust software application, CargoWatch™, for comprehensive device management. This web-based application delivers near-real-time, essential alerts on asset status, location, history, and arrival/departure, providing complete visibility for fleet and operations managers.

ORBCOMM will unveil the GT 1100 at the CTIA 2013 conference at the Sands Expo and Convention Center in Las Vegas, NV from May 21-23 at Booth 5335 in the M2M Zone. This device was recently selected as a finalist in the M2M, Sensors, RFID and NFC category of CTIA’s Emerging Technology (E-Tech Award) competition.

Strategic Partnership Creates End-to-End Connected Product and Remote Service Management Solution with ThingWorx and Enterprise Business Systems.

ThingWorx™ and Acumen Solutions, the trusted leader in Enterprise Cloud Transformation and a Salesforce Platinum Cloud Alliance Partner, announced today a worldwide strategic partnership to help extend the value of enterprise solutions for companies that sell, service and support smart, connected machines and equipment.

Acumen Solutions’ world-class consulting services, together with the power of the ThingWorx rapid development platform, helps customers deliver end-to-end connected solutions that leverage machine data to enhance service and support business processes. The result is simplified development and deployment, resulting in faster time to market, while helping organizations realize dramatic improvements in productivity and profitability through innovations in business and technology.

“Our partnership with ThingWorx combines the benefits of remote service management and a scalable, robust application development platform, with our deep experience with salesforce.com Service Cloud and field service management.”
Tom Bullotta, Managing Director, Global Services at Acumen Solutions, said:

“Companies that take advantage of our combined solution experience improved service efficiency, increased equipment uptime and performance, and improved customer satisfaction and loyalty. Additionally, this solution provides companies the foundation for leveraging the inputs and insights from an increasingly connected world.”

ThingWorx provides core capabilities around remote monitoring and service management for connected devices and equipment. These capabilities, combined with Acumen Solutions’ implementation and integration expertise, reduces the costs and risks associated with delivering solutions that integrate remote machines into core CRM processes. Key solution capabilities include machine generated service tickets, alerts and notifications, automated field technician dispatch, registration of connected devices, machine activity integration into enterprise collaboration, as well as automated consumables replenishment with real-time data from connected devices.

“We are pleased to partner with Acumen Solutions, a certified salesforce.com Platinum partner,” said Russ Fadel, CEO of ThingWorx. “As the number of smart devices grows from 1 Billion to 50 Billion, prebuilt Enterprise CRM—ThingWorx integration simplifies our mutual customers’ ability to rapidly deploy innovative connected solutions, creating a competitive advantage. We look forward to a mutually beneficial and long-term partnership with Acumen Solutions.”

Lemko Corporation, the leader in Virtualized Core Network OS for Super Mobility, launches its 100% virtualized, no core, M2M Quick-Deploy-Platform™.

With Lemko’s M2M platform connectivity is easier and more secure. Lemko’s M2M Quick-Deploy-Platform™ LTE Mini ships pre-tested and pre-configured with an integrated eNodeB radio and distributed and virtualized EPS software. This fit for purpose M2M design supports and enables a wide assortment of LTE M2M applications with shortened M2M application testing and deployment timelines. It also supports multiple communication scenarios across various industrial to carrier grade M2M terminals, microchips, modems, sensors and gateways for various broadband connectivity services.

“Network Operators, Service Providers and Application Designers can be certain that their 4G M2M services and applications are deployed with low latency options like M2M-Over-Satellite™, supporting large numbers of terminals with reduced network signaling.”

“Lemko also accelerates testing and deployment with On-Demand ability to activate/deactivate mobility for terminals and assign a specific HLR to M2M for IP Packet Use Cases without dedicated connections using Internet transport only,” says Michael Sisto , Vice President Sales, Lemko.

The M2M Quick-Deploy-Platform™ provides up to 10 watts of power and 20 MHz bandwidth in the LTE spectrum for extended coverage and M2M data speeds, yet is compact enough to be deployed in the Lab and then carried into the Field quickly.

Intel’s XMM™ 6255 HSPA platform is the engine inside u-blox’ low-cost 3G-only module.

Swiss-based u-blox, a leading provider of wireless and positioning semiconductors, software and solutions, announced that the company is collaborating with Intel Corporation to bring a small, cost-effective 3G-only HSPA module to the market.

Based on Intel’s XMM™ 6255 HSPA modem platform, the chipset will be packaged in a compact, low-cost module that maintains layout compatibility with u-blox’ SARA 2G and LISA 3G module series. u-blox’ 2G-3G-4G nested design philosophy allows product designers to offer tailored solutions to their target markets based on a single PCB design. This facilitates product diversity and easy migration while keeping price at a minimum through reduced design, test, logistics and certification costs.

“As operators start to sunset their GSM/GPRS services, we have partnered with Intel to bring the cost of 3G connectivity down,” said Nikolaos Papadopoulos, President of u-blox America.
“For 3G-only M2M devices, our compact HSPA-only module, which is about the size of a quarter, is layout compatible with our popular SARA GSM/GPRS wireless module series. This is the perfect combination for the North American market.”
The modem supports full HSPA connectivity and low power consumption in an ultra-small form factor.

“The XMM™ 6255 platform is latest innovation by Intel and specifically designed for M2M,” said Horst Pratsch, head of product line modules and M2M at Intel Corporation.

“Integrating the 3G power amplifier in the transceiver delivers the smallest possible size and lowest number of components enabling new applications of 3G in machine-to-machine applications. Intel is pleased to work with u-blox in bringing this solution to the market.”

Based on Intel® X-GOLD™ 625 digital- and analog- baseband with integrated Power Management Unit and the Intel® SMARTi™ UE2p transceiver for 3G, the Intel® XMM™ 6255 platform is the smallest available HSPA modem chipset. Its compact size and powerful HSPA performance enables u-blox to create the world’s smallest dedicated 3G modem module dedicated to operation over 3G networks worldwide.

40 million data points from 4,000 data streams delivered via Device Cloud to analyze environmental data.

Digi International will take part in deploying over 500 sensor nodes at Google’s developer conference, Google I/O, May 15-17. The Data Sensing Lab project demonstrates how real-time machine-to-machine (M2M) data can provide insight into customer behaviors and preferences. Utilizing Digi’s XBee ZigBee modules and ConnectPort wireless gateways to connect the nodes, sensor data is then collected and managed via Device Cloud by Etherios, Digi’s platform for managing large populations of devices and connecting devices to applications.

“Google is using the Internet of Things to get a global view of their entire multi-million dollar event as it plays out in real time. They’re learning where people are going and when, how loud the applause is for each presentation, where it’s figuratively hot and where it’s literally cool.”

Rob Faludi, collaborative strategy leader at Digi International and member of the Data Sensing Lab team, said:
“But they’re also learning how easy it is to integrate M2M data, via Device Cloud’s APIs, with their own cloud-based business systems.”

“Google and Digi collaborated to create a complete end-to-end solution in just a few weeks, one that’s ready to hand us 40 million fascinating data points.”

The sensor network’s 4,000 data streams running over Device Cloud utilizes over 500 XBee modules connecting Arduino based sensors to provide continuous updates on temperature, pressure, light, air quality, motion and noise levels in San Francisco’s Moscone Center during the conference. The Google Cloud Platform team will gather, transform, and analyze the information, then share heat maps and other data visualizations in collaboration with the Google Maps team.

The Data Sensing Lab crew, Alasdair Allan of Babilim Light Industries, Kipp Bradford of Kippworks, Rob Faludi of Digi International, Michael Manoochehri, Amy Unruh and Kim Cameron of Google and Julie Steele of O’Reilly Media, created the project to collect data to answer questions about the physical world in a fun and awe-inspiring way.

“EnTouch One” Master EMS Controller and Internet Gateway Achieves Critical Performance and Cost Targets with Telit’s GE865-QUAD.

Telit Wireless Solutions, a global provider of high-quality machine-to-machine (M2M) solutions, products and services and EnTouch Controls, a leading provider of energy management systems for small businesses and light commercial facilities, today announced that the companies have partnered to offer the cellular-enabled EnTouch One Energy Management System (EMS) controller and Internet gateway. The product was designed for new systems and to retrofit wired or non-networked controllers further expanding EnTouch’s penetration into energy management opportunity areas benefitting from cellular connectivity. Target customers for solutions based on the M2M enabled product include restaurants, stores, schools and offices.

The EnTouch One master controller is a central component in EMS solutions for commercial and small business facilities where traditional energy management systems are too complex and expensive. With it, solutions from EnTouch Controls leverage cellular wireless networking and cloud-based analytics to create an easy-to-use, low-cost platform. With the reduction in energy and maintenance costs, customers typically return their investment in the systems in less than two years. Small commercial customers such as restaurants, retail stores, school districts and property management firms are able to take advantage of this energy management platform to gain control over their energy costs.

Features and benefits of the EnTouch EMS platform:

• Cloud-based energy management system
• Replaces legacy thermostat controls
• Smart control for HVAC and Lighting
• Monitors energy usage and temperatures
• Advanced analytics reduce energy usage
• Cellular communication provides continuous connectivity
• Enables mobile facility management for national chain operators

Telit’s GE865-QUAD quad-band GSM/GPRS module integrated in the EnTouch One controller is the ideal solution for embedded cellular applications where small size, low-cost and energy efficiency are crucial. Measuring only 22mm x 22mm x 3mm, it is significantly smaller than most cellular modules in its price range. With a low-power consumption profile, it is ideal for battery powered or backed-up applications. Because of a compact form factor and a rich set of features, including an on-board Python interpreter, which allows the GE865-QUAD to run customer applications inside the module, it is well positioned for vertical application areas such as remote telemetry and control, mobile asset tracking, telematics, smart metering and telemedicine.

“The market is expanding for applications like EnTouch’s EMS platform that make energy management more efficient while being simple to deploy and operate,” said Mike Ueland, senior vice president and general manager of Telit Wireless Solutions North America.
“Their progressive business model addresses customer needs particularly in high-energy-cost markets. The GE865-QUAD plus Telit‘s extensive technical integration support are exactly what this type of application requires for a cost-effective, streamlined and successful go-to-market.”

Ifty Hassan, chief technology officer of EnTouch Controls said:

“Application of the EnTouch EMS in a small business can deliver energy savings of 10 to 20 percent or more and reductions in HVAC runtime of 25 percent.”

“With the cellular functionality delivered by the GE865-QUAD, the system can automatically alert business or property owners of issues with HVAC and other monitored equipment, saving both energy usage and maintenance expenses.”

With connectivity already in focus, the next wave of profits to come off M2M applications.

As the convergence of the information and communications with other industries drives advanced concepts including connected health, smart utility, and smart transport systems, mobile network operators (MNOs) are expanding their machine-to-machine (M2M) portfolios. Europe is at the forefront in the evolution of technologies to drive growth and competitiveness. Currently, the focus revolves around M2M connectivity, but the next and more profitable wave will be around M2M applications.

Frost & Sullivan’s recent analysis, European Machine to Machine (M2M) Connectivity Outlook – Part 1, assesses the M2M market in Germany, France, Poland, Russia, Sweden and the UK in terms of connectivity and market participants. It provides strategic suggestions to telecommunications providers on how to catch the next wave of M2M.

The Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 33 per cent is expected for the market in these countries between 2011 and 2016. The number of SIM connections is expected to reach 75 million in 2016, with the UK market taking the lead followed by Germany.

In the last 5 years, the M2M market in Europe has significantly evolved with market demand becoming more structured in certain applications. Telcos are fine-tuning their market strategies to better reflect their core capabilities and overall M2M vision.

“The largest driver for M2M telecom service providers has been relying on their core connectivity expertise.”

Frost & Sullivan Telecommunications and Connected Public Sector Industry Manager Saverio Romeo, said:

“Besides tapping into immediate M2M application areas where legislation is a driver for adoption – such as eCall for connected cars in Europe and in smart meters – M2M telcos are also increasingly positioned for the wave of M2M functions that are dictated by business objectives.”

The next waves of M2M applications are expected in healthcare, industrial automation, and consumer electronics. There will also be steady demand for security and remote surveillance, retail and other process automation applications. However, for the surge to occur, further consumer education is required. M2M telcos must continue to provide consulting services to build use cases and define an acceptable return on investments.

The market is undoubtedly on a strong growth path, driven by the shift towards “smart communities”. While M2M technologies are only one part of a framework of ICT enablers for the delivery of smart community services, it is a crucial one and telcos are trying to leverage inherent advantages to optimize their share in the burgeoning market that spans various verticals.

“In the midst of market evolution towards a smart community future, a successful M2M telco is one that is best positioned to rapidly move beyond connectivity offers, capture a larger proportion of M2M-related revenue, develop a smart community marketplace, and do so with the most cost-efficient route to market,” said Frost & Sullivan M2M and ICT in Smart Utilities Industry Manager Yiru Zhong.

To achieve this, MNOs must nurture the entire eco-system of stakeholders and collaborative partners to boost innovative efforts, bundle value-added services with M2M connectivity, and differentiate by simplifying the deployment and operation of an M2M project.

China is in the midst of its latest national development strategy, better known as the 12th Five-Year Guideline, which will continue through 2015.

One of the Guideline’s primary goals is “strengthening the construction of [the] smart grid.” With the support of the government-owned State Grid Corporation of China, as well as many provinces and cities, this effort is progressing rapidly. According to a recent report from Navigant Research, annual revenue from smart grid deployments in China will reach $15.4 billion by 2020.

“The area of strongest smart grid growth in China will be transmission upgrades, anticipated to reach more than $72 billion in revenue by 2020 on a cumulative basis.”

Bob Lockhart, senior research analyst with Navigant Research, says:
“Overall, smart grid development in China will generate $127 billion in cumulative revenue from 2012 to 2020.”

One primary objective of smart grid planners in China, according to the report, is to help address the country’s imbalanced energy supply. Coal remains the primary source of power generation, and 76 percent of China’s coal resources are located in Shanxi, Inner Mongolia, Shaanxi, Xinjiang, and other northern and western regions. However, the country’s energy consumption needs are mainly concentrated in the more industrialized economies in the eastern and southern regions.

Telit’s Value-added Service, m2mAIR, Streamlines Machine-to-Machine (M2M) Deployments in North American Market.

Telit Wireless Solutions, a leading global provider of high-quality machine-to-machine (M2M) modules, services and solutions, today announced a fast-track expansion of its m2mAIR service offerings in North America, in response to market demand for solutions to streamline deployment of M2M connected devices and applications. Leveraging relationships with mobile carriers and other wireless service providers by both Telit and recently acquired CrossBridge Solutions, Telit looks to expand m2mAIR services horizontally across application segments as well as vertically with enhanced customer support, access services, wireless management, security and cost control. The company will highlight the m2mAIR North America services at CTIA 2013™—THE Mobile Marketplace, May 21-23, 2013 at the Sands Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nevada – Booth 5734.

Access services are critical in M2M deployments. m2mAIR’s North American portfolio includes a comprehensive suite of network services that cover all your M2M needs including wireless carrier connectivity, flexible rate plans, performance monitoring, and 24 x 7 customer support. In North America, m2mAIR wireless access services include private and secure offerings for CDMA, GSM and satellite technologies.

Because management of the remote M2M connected device is critical for a successful deployment, m2mAIR offers an individually customizable state-of-the-art, web-based e-Portal from where account holders can provision devices, take advantage of full API functionality, manage data traffic consumption, manage user profiles, and maintain network-based usage policies. The device management services help customers manage the full device life cycle with flexible management tools for optimal total-cost-of-ownership.

Responding to the needs of M2M application business plans, m2mAIR billing only starts after the subscription is put into an active state. A device can be activated and deactivated as often as necessary and will only be billed once it becomes active, ensuring maximum cost optimization and consumption alerts can be easily configured to prevent bill shocks.

Adding to Telit’s services, m2mAIR North America offers a comprehensive 24/7/365 Network Operation Center (NOC) with proactive state of the art monitoring of all M2M network services. With direct relationships with the major carriers, m2mAIR can provide wireless data services in North America including Canada and Mexico.

“I am constantly asked the question of what differentiates m2mAIR North America from other M2M service providers. For me it’s easy.”
Rod Massie, general manager of m2mAIR North America’s business unit of Telit Wireless Solutions, said:

“m2mAIR North America is the longest operating and most respected M2M wireless data provider. We have specialized in wireless M2M solutions for over 20 years. Our 24/7/365 Network Operations Center (NOC) is the only one that has operated and been solely focused on M2M network services since 1990.”

“By combining module technology together with network capabilities, m2mAIR customers can now benefit from Telit’s long-standing experience in the M2M market and our One Stop Shop approach. Our technology innovation, expertise, outstanding quality and support are the best in the industry,” said Mike Ueland, senior vice president and general manager of Telit Wireless Solutions North America.

Partnership combines Tech Mahindra’s proven system integration capabilities with the ThingWorx M2M Enablement Platform, driving innovation and improving time-to-market for customers deploying Machine-to-Machine and Internet of Things applications.

ThingWorx™ today announced a global partnership with Tech Mahindra, a leading provider of solutions and services to the telecommunications industry. This partnership will enable Tech Mahindra to deliver innovative Machine-to-Machine (M2M) solutions at minimized cost, risk, and time to market for its customers worldwide by utilizing the ThingWorx Platform – the industry’s first application development platform designed to reduce the effort required to build M2M applications for the emerging connected world.

The combination of Tech Mahindra’s proven system integration and solution delivery capabilities along with ThingWorx’s M2M platform allows customers to take advantage of a 10X improvement in solution development and delivery for connected applications. With industry leading companies estimating that the number of Internet-connected devices will reach 50 billion by 2020, business enterprises and telecommunications providers are seeing M2M as a new avenue for business growth and sustained revenue. While this partnership encompasses a wide range of industries and geographies, the initial focus will be around a Tier1 Telco’s hosting solutions.

Manish Vyas, Global Head, Business Development of Tech Mahindra, said:
“After an extensive evaluation, we concluded that ThingWorx provides an innovative application enablement platform for delivering M2M and IoT solutions.”

“The development advantage offered by ThingWorx will enable us to deliver innovative applications that are much richer in functionality, in a fraction of the time required with alternate approaches.”

“We are pleased to enter into a strategic partnership with Tech Mahindra,” stated Russ Fadel, CEO of ThingWorx.
“Their global reach and M2M expertise, combined with the ThingWorx platform, will speed the adoption of innovative applications which we believe will be a catalyst for rapid growth in the emerging connected world. Our customers planning global rollouts of the ThingWorx platform will benefit from Tech Mahindra’s global reach and scale. We also envision broad consumption of the ThingWorx platform, enabled by Tech Mahindra, across many of the business sectors that make up The Mahindra Group. This partnership represents yet another step in ThingWorx’s global expansion plans.”

Compact wireless module used for emergency response and industrial systems.

Hitachi Kokusai Electric Inc. (“HiKE”), a leading Japanese provider of video and wireless network solutions, has completed a collaboration with u-blox to develop a custom M2M wireless module solution targeted at industrial and emergency alert networks throughout Japan.

The module is targeted for use in emergency alert systems to relay early warning and evacuation information to remote video displays in the event of disasters such as typhoons, earthquakes, and tsunamis. The module is also used in M2M systems in Japan for vending machine, remote meter reading, vehicle tracking and digital signage.

A Hitachi Kokusai Electric spokesperson closely involved in the project, said:

“To meet the demanding specifications required by operators and customers, we looked for a partner with deep technical knowledge in both wireless and machine-to-machine communications. u-blox’ extensive knowledge in mobile networks, embedded M2M software, and local presence in Japan was the right combination for us to meet the technical requirements of this project, as well as meet our production deadline.”

The module provides a wireless communication link with 7.2 Mb/s downlink and 5.7 Mb/s uplink. It supports high-speed packet communication protocol in addition to voice, email reception and SMS.

GateTel Set to Enter U.S. Market with Terminals Based on Telit Modules.

Telit Wireless Solutions, a global provider of high-quality machine-to-machine (M2M) solutions, products and services and GateTel Inc., a developer and manufacturer of GPRS, GSM, UMTS and GPS terminals, today announced an expansion of longstanding partnership into the North American market. With the opening of GateTel’s new regional offices in Newport Beach, California, GateTel and Telit – who have been strong partners for over 10 years – are now set to cooperate as GateTel plans to manufacture fully certified terminals for the OEM market based solely on Telit modules in California.

GateTel’s North America production is to start with three cellular terminals for the top three wireless networks, all supporting GNSS: the GT-HE910-NAG, the GT-DE910-S and the GT-DE910-V. The new products enable connectivity to the respective U.S. mobile network operators. Telit is collaborating closely with GateTel to ensure the terminals are fully network approved when they arrive in the market later this year.

The three new terminals are based on Telit’s xE910 family products. The GT-HE910-NAG is based on the HE910-NAG HSPA+ module capable of 14.4 Mbps downlink and 5.7 Mbps uplink data rates; plus the SL869 GPS+GLONASS GNSS receiver module. The GT-DE910-S and GT-DE910-V are based on the DE910-DUAL 1xEV-DO Rev.A module. The DE910-DUAL is capable of 3.1 Mbps downlink and 1.8 Mps uplink data rates; and is equipped with an embedded GPS+GLONASS GNSS receiver, which will be used by GateTel for the positioning functionality in these two EV-DO terminals.

The xE910 Unified Form Factor family is comprised of pin-to-pin compatible devices in Telit’s broadest range of cellular air interfaces and band combinations making it a pillar of the concept “design once and deploy globally”. A one-time design and integration effort enables worldwide or regional device re-use across different data rates and wireless technologies with air interfaces in GSM/GPRS, UMTS/HSPA+, 1xRTT, EV-DO, and LTE. The xE910 family fully preserves the core design of the application or device from launch to phase-out with family modules packaged in a common 28.2×28.2 mm LGA footprint; and is ideally suited for compact sized solutions for mid to high-volume applications.

The SL869 offers class leading multi-constellation GNSS functionality. Dead-reckoning and TRAIM support can additionally provide an integrated, cost effective solutions for navigation, tracking and timing applications. The Jupiter SL869 offers seamless integration with Telit cellular modules.

“It is very rewarding to help GateTel, a Telit customer since day one, to expand into North America,” said Mike Ueland, senior vice president and general manager of Telit Wireless Solutions North America. “GateTel has been a loyal Telit customer working with us in Europe, the Middle East and now North America.”

“The last couple of years have seen an increase in demand for our terminal products,” said David Ezer, CEO of GateTel, Inc.

“North America is a market where many concepts and ideas are tried. We are excited to offer a complete line of M2M terminals in the States to our new customers.”

ETSI publishes first specification for Ultra Low Energy DECT – and expects to lead the field in the M2M market.

ETSI has published the first Technical Specification (TS 102 939-1) on DECT ULE (Ultra Low Energy), a low power consumption radio technology intended for home automation and other Machine-to-Machine (M2M) applications.

DECT ULE is based on the very popular and highly successful Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications (DECT™) standard, which was developed by ETSI. The main characteristics of DECT ULE are ultra low power consumption, good Quality of Service (a unique feature of ULE compared with other low power wireless standards) and wider coverage than competing technologies.

ULE positions DECT in new and rapidly growing market segments of M2M communications, including energy and utilities (for home automation and smart metering), assisted living and telecare (for example when used with monitoring devices) and safety and security (such as voice entry phones and smoke sensors). The DECT ULE specification is a multi-part specification; the first phase of development has focused on the Home Automation Network (HAN) but ongoing work will extend its application to industrial automation too.

DECT ULE is an ideal radio communications technology to support M2M in the home. DECT is already available in many homes. New ULE devices will be fully compatible with existing DECT systems and will use the existing DECT spectrum. In addition, a single device can combine ULE and DECT/DECT New Generation functionalities. So, by upgrading the base station, existing devices can still be used and other devices added to provide new services and applications to the customer, all controlled from the DECT base station.

DECT ULE harnesses all the advantages of traditional DECT. These include the key factor of instantaneous dynamic channel selection combined with seamless handover. The quality of a link is permanently monitored and, if necessary, the transmission is switched to a better channel without interrupting the media stream. DECT devices have always been very power efficient but, with the arrival of ULE, the stand-by-time can be increased to up to ten years. These factors make DECT ULE technology an excellent choice for the sensors, alarms and monitoring devices used in various types of home automation.

In addition, DECT is traditionally subject to less interference than other communications technologies, due to its exclusive spectrum range in Europe and more than 40 countries outside the CEPT area. DECT is also well known for its high quality and long range.

Dr Guenter Kleindl, Chairman of ETSI’s DECT Technical Committee (TC DECT) which is developing the DECT ULE standards, commented:

“DECT ULE is an exciting new application of DECT for a completely different market. It addresses many application scenarios, particularly in the M2M area, which no existing technology can support – other contenders suffer from a variety of drawbacks including high power consumption, spectrum access limitations, short range or a lack of standardisation.”

“The low power consumption of ULE technology extends battery life (typically up to ten years) and, with New Generation DECT, connectivity to the Internet is already available, which makes DECT ULE ideal for sensors, alarms, M2M applications and industrial automation. The technology may also be applied to utility meters and related devices, which has implications for the operation of smart grids too.”

“All these innovative new applications will benefit enormously from the properties inherent in DECT ULE. As a result, we expect DECT ULE to make a significant impact on the M2M market.”

The DECT base standard (EN 300 175 series) has also been updated to include the necessary new protocol elements and procedures for DECT ULE, and the revised version is expected to be published early in 2014.

ABI Research’s latest data on the Internet of Everything (IoE) shows that there are more than 10 billion wirelessly connected devices in the market today; with over 30 billion devices expected by 2020.

Peter Cooney, practice director said:

“The emergence of standardized ultra-low power wireless technologies is one of the main enablers of the IoE, with semiconductor vendors and standards bodies at the forefront of the market push, helping to bring the IoE into reality. The year 2013 is seen by many as the year of the Internet of Everything, but it will still be many years until it reaches its full potential.”

“The next 5 years will be pivotal in its growth and establishment as a tangible concept to the consumer.”

Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, ZigBee, Cellular, RFID, and many other wireless technologies are all important to drive Internet of Everything growth. The long term expansion of the market will be dependent on wireless technology becoming invisible so that the consumer will be oblivious to which technology is used and only know that it works.

“Today, Hub devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops are pivotal in enabling the IoE ecosystem and will continue to be an essential building block,” added Cooney.
“Future growth, however, is driven by node or sensor type devices and by 2020 these will account for 60% of the total installed base of devices.”

Partnership Promotes Numerex DNA® Services and Platforms to Extend Supply Chain Visibility.

Numerex Corp (NASDAQ: NMRX), a leading provider of on-demand and interactive machine-to-machine (M2M) enterprise solutions, and Manhattan Associates (NASDAQ: MANH) today announced they have expanded their long-standing relationship to offer customers a variety of value-added M2M solutions around extended network services for supply chain optimization. These services for vertical market customers will extend real-time business intelligence into the supply chain, creating efficiencies and reducing costs.

“The extended supply chain is dynamic and complex, with raw materials and finished products flowing between manufacturers, vendors, and customers across multiple touch points, each with a goal of accurate and timely fulfillment demands. We make managing that complicated chain more cost effective with customized, scalable solutions,” said Stratton J. Nicolaides , Chairman and CEO of Numerex.
“As a proud partner to the supply chain experts at Manhattan Associates, our M2M solutions enable customers to more effectively manage and allocate resources, gaining real-time visibility and extending the reach of their assets.”

Numerex Supply Chain solutions support a host of applications such as monitoring mobile inventory, container asset tracking with level sensing, and location of packaged goods, pallets, containers, vessels and heavy vehicles. The Numerex Supply Chain solution includes all necessary components (customized devices, sensors, network elements, mobility and enterprise management interfaces) to deliver a single source solution that can be completely integrated into a company’s Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems. Built on the Numerex FAST® platform and complemented by an intelligent, web-based management portal, Numerex’s end-to-end solution manages the entire process from development through deployment, allowing customers to focus on their core business.

Jeff Cashman, Sr. Vice President of Business Development and Alliances, Manhattan Associates, says:

“Knowing where your assets are at all times is paramount to ensuring supply chain fidelity and managing costs.”

“Numerex’s offerings support improved asset utilization, enhanced operational efficiencies and reduction in loss and costs for our customers, all through their highly secure network.”

CE910-DUAL Cellular Module Enables Cost-effective Connectivity over the Sprint CDMA 1xRTT Network for Consumer and Commercial Applications.

Telit Wireless Solutions, a leading global provider of high-quality machine-to-machine (M2M) modules, services and solutions, today announced approval by Sprint for its CE910-DUAL cellular M2M module. A dual-band CDMA 1xRTT module, the CE910-DUAL allows Sprint M2M Solutions customers to deploy a wide range of M2M applications benefiting from reliable connectivity over Sprint’s nationwide network while enabling even the most cost sensitive business plans.

The CE910-DUAL packs high value features in its ultra-compact 28.2 x 28.2 x 2.04 mm Land Grid Array (LGA) package. USB 2.0 full-speed support and a rich set of drivers make it ideal for embedded applications requiring easy integration to platforms based on the latest desktop and mobile operating systems such as Windows and Linux. Full-duplex data rate of 153.6 Kpbs and extended operating temperature range of -30°C to +85°C make it a suitable platform for mobile and fixed applications such as vending, point-of-sale (POS), tracking, smart metering, and telematics devices.

“Sprint plans to maintain our CDMA 1xRTT network capability for the long term as part of our overall Network Vision strategy,” said Wayne Ward, vice president, M2M Group, Sprint.
“We have been working with Telit for several years as a Sprint preferred provider and one of the leading module suppliers to the M2M industry and believe their xE910 form factor makes it easy for customers to deploy on either the EV-DO or 1xRTT CDMA Sprint networks.”

Mike Ueland, senior vice president and general manager of Telit Wireless Solutions North America, said:

“With this approval, the cost-effectiveness, reliability and functionality of the CE910-DUAL module are accessible to Sprint M2M and Telit customers along with outstanding support and network connectivity from one of the nation’s top-rated cellular networks.”

Part of the xE910 form factor family, the CE910-DUAL protects investments by offering complete compatibility with the DE910-DUAL, a Sprint approved companion product for EV-DO Rev. A applications. For more information, visit www.telit.com.